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Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house

Photo gallery for Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house

Miscellaneous
View across Urquharts Bay to Mt Manaia.
An open plan living area and kitchen looks out to the Whangārei harbour.
Interior
Living area

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedroomsSleeps 61 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Ocean view
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house

This waterfront beach house is nestled in the centre of Urquharts Bay, a quiet haven on the Whangarei Harbour.
Located 33km from central Whangarei city, the property is unique because it offers such a diverse range of holiday options. If visitors just want to rest and relax, they can sit peacefully on the north-facing deck and watch the world go by. There is always something happening in the bay below or further up the harbour. From people going fishing and diving, windsurfers skimming across the waves, families swimming and people beachcombing. While the main shoreline of the beach is pebbley, and beach shoes are recommended, there are sandy beaches at each end. It is very safe and an ideal spot for youngsters to learn to kayak.
Boaties find Urquharts Bay easy for launching, with a concrete ramp that can be used in all tides (4x4 is recommended). Just a short boat ride from shore, you can catch your dinner or dive for scallops. And for those with larger boats, the Hen and Chicken Islands are further off the coast and reknowned for diving. Without a boat, it's a short walk along to the Urquharts Bay jetty - another popular local fishing spot.
For those wanting to challenge themselves physically while enjoying the stunning coastal enviornment, there are 11 specially developed walking tracks in the area. These vary in fitness levels and duration. From Urquharts Bay, you can explore the Smugglers Bay walk and the Peach Cove track. It's a short drive to the base of Mt Manaia - a challenging walk with breathtaking views of the coastline. For surfers, Ocean Beach, is only six minutes drive away. The beach is patrolled in summer.
En route to Urquharts Bay, visitors can collect extra provisions from the Four Square at Parua Bay, and there is a BP service station. The Parua Bay Tavern is also on the way, and there are cafes at Parua Bay and McLeods Bay. Emergency supplies can also be purchased at the nearby Taurikura Store.
Check in 3pm, check out 11am.
Special conditions:
Kayaks - Two kayaks with adult size lifejackets.
Property Access - Trailers and large vehicles are not permitted at the rear of the property. The concrete driveway to this area is narrow and turning is tight. There is ample room for parking boats and trailers at the front of the property off-road.
Beach Footwear - The shoreline of Urquharts Bay is stoney in places, so beach shoes are recommended.

Extras: Cleaning (Required, NZ$60.00 per stay); Bedding /sheets/tea towels and towels provided)

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House Rules

Check in after 3:30 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
It should be accompanied by an adult
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
The concrete driveway access to the rear of the property is narrow, so large vehicles and trailers are restricted from using this driveway.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Whangarei Heads

Located in Whangarei Heads, this holiday home is on the beach. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Waipu Museum, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Taurikura Bay and Ocean Beach. Jet skiing and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and mountain climbing nearby.
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Map
Urquharts Bay, Whangarei Heads

What's nearby

  • Taurikura Bay - 3 min drive - 2.6 km
  • Ocean Beach - 4 min drive - 4.7 km
  • Mcleod Bay - 7 min drive - 7.2 km
  • Reotahi Bay - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
  • Bream Head Coast Walks - 12 min drive - 7.3 km

Getting around

  • Whangarei (WRE) - 28 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Smith & Local - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Two Birds Cafe & Restaurant - ‬55 min drive
  • ‪McLeod Bay Fish and Chips - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Ruakaka Tavern - ‬55 min drive
  • ‪Land & Sea - ‬60 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

As of 29 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house on 25 Apr 2026 start from AU$166, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Haven in the Bay: self-contained 3 bedroom waterfront beach house located?

Nestled on the beach, this Whangarei Heads holiday home is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Taurikura Bay and 2.8 mi (4.5 km) from Ocean Beach. Mount Manaia and Mcleod Bay are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 43 out of 54 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 9 out of 54 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 54 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 54 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 54 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carla S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful location and wonderful bach. It was the perfect spot for our weekend getaway.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

mark p.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great comms - amenities were as described & all worked well & good condition
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shand P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was the third time that we have stayed at Haven in the Bay. Great bach, very clean with awesome views and a boat ramp pretty much in front of the house. We love it there with loads to do in the area. Hope to be back again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy communication, wonderful Bach that was very well equipped and had a wonderful view
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Robert C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing getaway

Great bach in good location
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025
From a partner site

8/10 Good

susan w.

This was a great spot and had absolutely everything we needed.

This was a great spot and had absolutely everything we needed.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wally S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The views! The quiet!

The ever changing action on the bay & the peaceful location combined to make a great weeks stay
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Demelza O.

Great time

Really enjoyed our stay. Awesome location! Owner was great to deal with.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Louise T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable cottage

Convenient location to access hiking trails, beaches & fishing (from nearby wharf). Well-equipped home-away-from-home.
Stayed 11 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Demelza O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic place to stay

This was our second time staying here and we really enjoyed it! Awesome location and great amenities. Karen was lovely to deal with. Would highly recommend.
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Seaside break

Thanks for a terrific stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jane A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This Bach was amazing, so clean, has everything you could think of! Feels like a home away from home. Stunning views from the Deck, we were even lucky enough to see Orcas in the bay!Amazing beaches and walks right outside the front door. Location was perfect.Hosts left great instructions, and are so friendly and helpful! We will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely get away

Such a nice little home away from home! We really enjoyed our time away and the kids were very entertained with the availability of games. Really nice, clean and cosy place
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Maïté G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Such a quiet place

We were looking for a quiet place on our trip to the north. We found everything we need there.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shand P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot

This was our second time staying at this awesome bach. Perfect spot. We love it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hayley B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ocean View was perfect for us. From the very start Karen was so lovely and accommodating - all instructions were clear, everything worked and most importantly for me the house was clean. The view was spectacular and was so close to our whanau. Our son made friends with two particular seagulls (sorry neighbours). We will definitely book again when we travel up next.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

christine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Haven in the Bay is the best in the Bay!

What an amazing place! There is absolutely nothing you can fault. The accommodation is even better than the photo's show. The place is spotless, very well equipped and the views are just breathtaking. Karen was fabulous to deal with and I can not recommend this accommodation highly enough.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stacey S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway spot

Awesome place to catch up with friends enjoy the tranquility of the Heads - no need for tv - there is so much to see on the water including the waterskiing dog! Firewood available and made our stay that much more cozy! Thanks 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jean G.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

Couldn't ask for a better spot!

A lovely homely environment with all the comforts and facilities met. Wonderful peaceful location with an absolute stunner of a view and sunset evenings. Close to many coastal walks with beautiful scenery.especially with the Pohutukawa flowers being in full blossom...a sight to behold.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shand P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great loaction

We loved our stay at Urquharts Bay. Great location with awesome views down the harbour. Easy access to all tide boat ramps and the fishing was good for us in the entrance. The house has everything you need and plenty of shade on the back deck when its baking out the front. Heaps to do in the area with Ocean Beach not far away and plenty of nice walks to other bays on your door step. We would love to come back one day!
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Carol F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Haven on the Bay

Absolutely loved our stay at the far end of Whangarei Heads. Such easy access to swim and hike. We enjoyed simply relaxing on the deck watching the tide come in and out. Visiting town was a scenic winding road - happy to explore, shop and eat, but always wanted to return 'home'. Thank you Karen for sharing your piece of paradise. It's always a pleasure for us gray nomads to find such a perfect spot to nest for awhile.
Stayed 6 nights in Feb 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Brooke L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely home

This lovely property has just what you need for a beachside holiday. We were only there for a short weekend so did not have the chance to make full use of all there was to offer. The kayaks were calling for us but unfortunately we didn’t have time. The view is stunning, the house is homely, it had everything we needed. Karen provided all the tips, tricks and need to knows with super fast communication. Thank you for sharing your place with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anca W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ah, the hikes and the view

We loved it and hope we can return one day!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Linda M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Great Place to Stay

We loved it here. It's comfortable, well-equipped, and well located, with great walks and swimming on your doorstep. Can't wait to get back!
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dom M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wow, what a place!!

Fantastic location and an awesome house to stay at, really hope to get to stay there again! Straight across the road from the end of the drive, into the sea. Lovely pohutakawa tree right therer with a rope bench seat in the shade to gently swing on while watching the kids in the water. Just the most relaxing place in the world.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2022

About the host

Hosted by Karen Clearwater

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

Our property has expansive views across Urquharts Bay and the Whangarei Harbour. You'll never be bored as there is always something to look at and something to do. If the weather's good you can walk, swim, go boating, kayak or take a short drive to Ocean Beach and go surfing. If the weather isn't so good, then you can stay cosy and warm inside with a favourite book, board game, music, DVD or tune into Netflix using Chromecast. The property offers a homely comfort feel. It's private and there is plenty of parking for vehicles and a boat

Languages:

English
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